Microsoft will release the Xbox Ally handheld on October 16 and is launching the Handheld Compatibility Program to test and optimize thousands of games for handheld play. The program will verify titles for default controller inputs, appropriate resolution for full-screen play, and minimal required setting tweaks. Games will be marked "Handheld Optimized" or "Mostly Compatible" in game libraries to indicate expected experience. Titles will also receive a Windows Performance Fit indicator of "Should play great" or "Should play well." Microsoft will continue partnering with developers for submissions and testing to improve compatibility across the Xbox library.
Microsoft announced Wednesday during Gamescom 2025 that not only will its Xbox Ally handhelds be released on October 16, but the company is spinning up a new initiative to support optimized gaming on these devices called the Handheld Compatibility Program. The initiative seems to be similar to Valve's Steam Deck Verified, where Xbox will test games to ensure their compatibility with the new Xbox Ally handhelds.
"We have worked with game studios to test, optimize, and verify thousands of games for handheld compatibility, allowing you to jump into the game without having to tweak settings, or requiring only minor adjustments," said Roanne Sones, CVP of Gaming Devices and Ecosystem at Xbox. The program will be available on release day and users will be able to see handheld compatibility directly in their game libraries.
Games will be badged as "Handheld Optimized," indicating games with default controller inputs, appropriate resolution for full-screen play and more. Games badged as "Mostly Compatible" may require minor in-game setting adjustments for an optimal experience on the Xbox Ally handheld. In addition to the "Handheld Optimized" badge, games will also be given a Windows Performance Fit indicator of either "Should play great" or "Should play well."
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